What does "reasonable suspicion" mean in policing?

"Reasonable suspicion" in policing refers to a belief that is founded on specific, articulable facts that would lead a law enforcement officer to reasonably suspect that criminal activity is occurring or will occur. This standard is important because it allows officers to take action, such as engaging with an individual or conducting a stop, without needing the higher threshold of "probable cause," which requires more substantial evidence that a crime has been committed.

In this context, the correct choice emphasizes that reasonable suspicion is not a vague feeling or intuition but rather is grounded in observable circumstances that are articulated clearly by the officer. This standard protects individual rights while allowing police to effectively address potential criminal behavior based on concrete facts rather than unfounded assumptions or biases.

The concept is designed to balance the needs of public safety with individual freedoms, ensuring that law enforcement actions are justified by specific details that can be articulated in a court of law if necessary.